Arcata, Humboldt County, CA -- An estimated 300 protesters gathered here Friday at the town's main Plaza area to speak out for justice and peace, and against the US government's ongoing war drive in Iraq.

At least 100 participants of "Women in Black" protested in silence Friday at Arcata's downtown Plaza, where official signs remind citizens what they can't do in the public square. The "Women in Black" gather every Friday at this same southeast corner of the Plaza at 5:00 p.m., standing (or sitting) one hour in a silent vigil for peace.

A couple dozen or so local members of "Veterans of Peace" and their supporters silently occupied the southwest corner of the Plaza on Friday in solidarity with the "Women in Black" (in the background).